How kind-hearted youngsters at a Harborough primary school are bringing Christmas cheer to hospital patients, neighbours and care home residents

Youngsters at a Market Harborough primary school are making a lot of people – including many in hospitals and care homes – feel much more cheery this Christmas.

Pupils at Ridgeway Primary Academy are busy zipping off Christmas cards to hospital patients, neighbours, care home residents, nurseries and businesses.

The kind-hearted children at the school on The Ridgeway are also sending cards to people in Market Harborough particularly isolated amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

The colourful card features eight designs, including one by much-loved school cat and mascot Pippin.

Pictures chosen from the school Christmas card competition also help to illustrate the festive greeting and make it even more special.

Children across Key Stages 1 and 2 were invited to draw a seasonal image – with a winner being chosen from each class.

Head of School Dave Turner said: “We are always delighted to celebrate the children’s creative skills.

“So when the idea of a school Christmas card competition was discussed, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to spread some festive cheer and showcase our pupils’ talents.”

Taking centre stage are Pippin’s ‘Santa Paw’ prints – the entry from class 65SJ.

Pippin has been with the school for years, having adopted Class 65SJ as his family after leaving home for pastures new.

Originally called Albert, Pippin’s first family said they were happy for him to stay with the school as he’s obviously happy there.

“We decided to send as many cards as possible to local residents.

“We are also sending cards to St Luke’s Hospital – which will be caring for older patients over the Christmas period.

“Our children have all been learning about the Christmas story,” said Dave.

“And as one of our Year 6 put it, ‘if we can make someone smile and feel less lonely at Christmas, then we should’.

“Over 80 children aged 5-11 submitted their drawings and choosing the eight winners, one from each age group, certainly wasn’t easy but it was great fun.”

For further information on Ridgeway Primary Academy visit www.ridgewayprimary.org.uk

And to see a selection of the showstopping pictures entered into the competition please visit the school’s Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/ridgewayprimaryacademymh